Hurricane season begins again on June 1, 2015 and continues through November 30, 2015. DCAB was an exhibitor at the Windward Mall Resilience Fair on May 16, 2015, and we were surprised to learn from a brief survey of the people who stopped at our table that they did not know when hurricane season began.

From an article printed in the May 15th issue of the Star Advertiser, predictions are that Hawaii could see a repeat of the 2014 hurricane season. The National Weather Service predicts that there is a good chance that the current El Nino will continue to warm the surface of the ocean.  Warmer water, weaker tradewinds, and less wind shear are factors that could open up a path for more hurricanes.

In 2014 there were three (3) tropical storms that had a direct impact on Hawaii: Iselle, Julio, and Ana. The tropical storm advisories issued last year were higher than those issued for more than the past decade.

With this in mind, we should all be aware that there is a major event coming even if we are not sure when it will hit. So take the time now to prepare your go-kits with basic items that should include 7-10 days of food and water per person. If you have anyone with a disability that you are caring for, assist that person in putting together their kit. The kit will be used if you shelter-in-place at home or with another family, or it should be taken with you if there is a need to evacuate to a shelter.

Know the location of a few shelters nearest you, and watch the television or listen to the radio to find out which shelters will be open. A location may be identified as an evacuation shelter, but that does not mean the county will choose to open that particular one. The best practice is to be informed, make a plan, and have your kit ready. And a reminder for pet owners or service animal handlers, prepare a go-kit for your pet or service animal too!

   

Aloha,

 

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